Beaujolais International Marathon 2025

• Experience wine tastings at 15 stands along the scenic route through Beaujolais vineyards and châteaux.
• Enjoy a festive atmosphere with live entertainment as part of the Beaujolais Nouveau launch celebrations.
• Marathon route features stunning views of nine châteaux, enhancing the run with cultural charm.
• Register online, ensuring to upload a medical certificate or FFA license; bibs picked up at Parc Expo.
• Convenient shuttle services from Parc Expo to start locations; bag storage available for half marathon.

Set in the picturesque vineyards and charming villages of the Beaujolais region, the Beaujolais International Marathon offers a running experience like no other. The race is renowned for its unique festive atmosphere, where marathon running meets local tradition. Participants find themselves navigating a course filled with rolling hills, tight turns, and scenic views, all the while indulging in the vibrant French culture. Throughout the marathon, runners are treated not only to stunning landscapes but also to the opportunity to sample the region's famed Beaujolais Nouveau wines at multiple points along the course. This blend of sport and celebration is accentuated by numerous musical events and spirited local support, creating a carnival-like ambiance. The marathon takes pride in its inclusive and cheerful spirit, appealing to a wide range of participants with its additional distances, such as the half marathon, relay options, and a family marathon. This race is more than a physical challenge; it's a cultural journey through one of France's most storied wine regions, making it a must-do for both competitive runners and those looking to enjoy an entertaining and uniquely French running festival.

Expect temperatures between 41-54°F (5-12°C) with moderate humidity for the Beaujolais International Marathon in late November. Prepare for potential rain showers as November is one of the wetter months in Villefranche-sur-Saône. Cloud cover is common, so anticipate cooler, overcast conditions.

The Beaujolais International Marathon offers a vibrant and exhilarating experience for runners, weaving through the stunning landscapes of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. This 42.195-kilometer course begins in the charming village of Fleurie and concludes in the historic town of Villefranche-sur-Saône. As runners navigate the course, they will encounter over 260 meters of ascent and 385 meters of descent, with a mix of paved roads and occasional muddy vineyard paths.

Participants will be treated to breathtaking views of golden stone villages and the autumnal hues of vineyards. Along the way, runners can savor wine tastings and local delicacies at various wine cellars and châteaux, enhancing the celebratory spirit of the event. The marathon is renowned for its festive atmosphere, featuring live music, DJ sets, and a playful emphasis on costumes and fancy dress, encouraging creativity and humor among participants.

With nine wine tasting opportunities and five sporting refreshment points, the marathon seamlessly blends athletic challenge with cultural immersion. Cooler November temperatures add to the appeal, making the Beaujolais International Marathon a must-experience event for those seeking a fun and memorable race.

Visiting Villefranche-sur-Saône during the Beaujolais International Marathon offers a delightful mix of cultural exploration and scenic beauty. Wander through the historic center to admire the Renaissance architecture along Rue Nationale, including the Dephelines House and the Collegiate Church of Our Lady of the Marshes. For art enthusiasts, the Paul Dini Museum provides a rich overview of Lyon's painting history, while the Conscripts Museum offers a glimpse into local traditions.

Wine lovers will find themselves in paradise, as the region's vineyards are a highlight. Enjoy guided tours and tastings in the renowned Beaujolais vineyards, including a visit to the Château de La Chaize, often dubbed the "small Versailles" of Beaujolais. Immerse yourself in the local wine culture, which is celebrated throughout the marathon event with tastings along the course.

To fully embrace the local flavor, savor regional specialties like the famous sugar cake of Pérouges. The festive atmosphere of the marathon, complete with gastronomic and musical experiences, ensures a memorable visit. Whether you explore by foot, bike, or Segway, Villefranche-sur-Saône promises an enriching and vibrant experience beyond the marathon itself.